Associate Data Scientist

Job Posting Organization:
The Independent Institution on Missing Persons in the Syrian Arab Republic (IIMP) was established by the General Assembly in its resolution 77/301, adopted on 29 June 202

• The organization is dedicated to addressing the issue of missing persons in Syria, aiming to clarify their fate, whereabouts, and circumstances of disappearance. The IIMP operates under the auspices of the United Nations and is committed to upholding human rights and humanitarian principles. The organization is relatively new, reflecting the urgent need for accountability and support for families affected by the conflict in Syria. It is expected to grow in capacity and reach as it establishes its operational framework and engages with various stakeholders.

Job Overview:
The Associate scientist" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Data Scientist position is crucial for the IIMP as it focuses on leveraging data science methodologies to support the organization's mission. The role involves exploring and acquiring diverse data sources, applying quality methods to prepare data for analysis, and utilizing advanced analytical techniques to derive insights that can inform the organization's work on missing persons in Syria. The incumbent will be expected to contribute to the design and development of data science products that reveal insights and enhance understanding of complex data sets. This position requires a strong foundation in data analysis, statistical methods, and the ability to communicate findings effectively through various formats, including reports and visualizations. The Associate Data Scientist will also guide and supervise general service staff, fostering a collaborative environment that emphasizes teamwork and shared goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Associate Data Scientist include:

• Assisting in the exploration, identification, and acquisition of diverse and complex data sources to assess their suitability for analytical use.
• Applying quality methods to structure, clean, format, parse, and standardize data for analysis.
• Contributing to the application of data science methods to support programmatic areas related to missing persons in Syria.
• Designing and developing data science products to reveal insights and enhance understanding of data through advanced analytical methods such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and predictive analytics.
• Analyzing large volumes of data to identify patterns and relationships, and developing analytical outputs and visualization products to communicate findings effectively.
• Guiding, training, and supervising general service staff in data-related functions.
• Collaborating with colleagues to achieve organizational goals and ensuring the incorporation of gender perspectives in all areas of work.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of the data analysis life cycle, including data ingestion, wrangling, analysis, and visualization. Knowledge of statistical and computational methods is essential, including techniques such as clustering, classification, regression, and machine learning. The ideal candidate should demonstrate professionalism, efficiency, and a commitment to the organization's mission. They should also exhibit strong teamwork skills, valuing collaboration and input from colleagues, and be technologically aware, keeping abreast of available technologies and their applicability to the work of the office.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in data science, information management, statistics, public administration, public information, management, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in data science, data analytics, applied mathematics, information management, or a related area is required. Desirable experience includes proficiency in statistical programming tools and languages such as Python, R, Jupyter, MATLAB, SPSS, or SAS. Familiarity with data manipulation, analysis, and visualization tools like pandas, Power BI, or Tableau is also advantageous. Experience with natural language processing tools and working with large volumes of structured and unstructured data is preferred, as well as experience with document review platforms and databases.

Languages:
English and Arabic are required for this position, with proficiency at UN Level III for reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the United Nations Secretariat, but proficiency in French is not mandatory for this role.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available until 31 December 202

• If the selected candidate is a staff member from the United Nations Secretariat, the selection will be administered as a temporary assignment. The position may be relocated to Damascus, Syria, or another relevant location, and candidates must confirm their willingness to accept such reassignment. The role is subject to the funding source of the position, and eligibility may be limited to candidates based at the duty station. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, and reasonable accommodation may be provided to applicants with disabilities upon request.